IIM Kozhikode Launches DeepTech Incubation Programme

IIM Kozhikode launches DEEP LEAP with Walmart Global Tech to incubate 50 DeepTech startups over 12 months, offering mentorship, industry connections and funding support across emerging technology sectors.

The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode) launches DEEP LEAP, a flagship DeepTech incubation programme aimed at supporting high-potential technology startups and accelerating their transition from prototypes to scalable ventures. The initiative is launched by IIMK LIVE, the institute’s business incubator, in partnership with Walmart Global Tech as its founding industry partner.

The programme brings together academic expertise, industry capabilities and entrepreneurship support to strengthen the DeepTech startup ecosystem in India. Walmart Global Tech’s partnership with IIMK LIVE marks its first formal institutional collaboration in India focused specifically on DeepTech startups.

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DEEP LEAP targets early-stage startups that have developed a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP). The programme covers several emerging and frontier technology areas, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, quantum computing, robotics and autonomous systems, SpaceTech, aerospace, semiconductors and photonics.

The initiative plans to engage with around 1,500 startups from across India, from which 50 ventures are selected for a 12-month incubation and acceleration cohort. Selected founders receive structured support covering business strategy, go-to-market planning, product validation and investor readiness.

DEEP LEAP carries a proposed outlay of ₹2.89 crore, including ₹1.5 crore earmarked for seed funding support for selected startups. The programme also provides access to expert mentorship, industry connections and investors as participating ventures work towards market readiness and business growth.

According to IIMK LIVE, the one-year programme includes dedicated mentorship and training, industry collaboration and funding opportunities of up to ₹30 lakh. The initiative is designed to help founders refine their products and business models, strengthen market readiness, improve investor preparedness and build strategic connections.

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The programme culminates in a Demo Day, where participating startups receive an opportunity to present their innovations to investors and industry leaders. The initiative aims to strengthen links among DeepTech startups, academia, industry and the investment ecosystem.

Through DEEP LEAP, IIM Kozhikode and Walmart Global Tech seek to support technology ventures as they move beyond early prototypes and develop scalable businesses, while creating greater opportunities for Indian DeepTech innovators to connect with industry expertise and global markets.